Eyelash Extension Retention issues...

Retention issues can be a frustrating and tricky thing to figure out...there are so many variables to holding on to your eyelash extensions...and EVERYONE is different. I do everything within my power from temperature, humidity, application time and a fresh adhesive every single month (when the manufacturer says I can keep it for three!) to assure that the application is correct on my end...it's what you do once you leave that really matters. Remember, friction and oils are lash extensions worst enemies.

aftercare: you must stay dry for the entire cure time of your adhesive in order to have a proper bond. If it's raining bring a hat or an umbrella and plan all water, tear/sweat inducing activities for after your cure-window. Lashes that are cleaned regularly will last longer. Oils from your skin and makeup and pollutants from the environment can prematurely breakdown the adhesive causing early loss. Even if you don't wear makeup you still need to wash the day to keep the extensions holding on.

daily skincare/makeup routine: be sure you are only using cleansers/makeup that is formulated to work with your extensions around your eyes...and be sure to wash it away everyday. If you tend to have oily skin or eyelids, invest in oil blotting papers and soak up that oil a few times a day.

workouts: excessive sweat or prolonged exposure to water will shorten the life of your extensions. Start rocking a sweatband and buy goggles that are big enough to go over and around your extensions.

spray tanning: avoid a spray tan three days before you get your lashes done. spray tans contain an adhesive to help keep the color in place until it is absorbed by the body...this creates a film on your lashes and prevents the eyelash extension adhesive from properly bonding to the natural lash...also avoid spray tanning for 24 hours after you have your lashes done.

crying and eye rubbing: a good cry every now and again won't hurt your extensions, but days and days of tears will do a number. rubbing your eyes is a very bad idea with extensions on...it can prematurely pull out your natural lash or weaken the bond between the natural lash and the extension.

sleep: don't lose sleep over your lashes, but know that squishing them into a pillow causes friction and will breakdown the bond between your natural lash and the extension...try your best to sleep on your back.

hormones: those of you on hormones (or pregnant) might find it difficult to keep your extensions on as long as you would like...there isn't much we can do about this one except see each other more often.

stress: I only have anecdotal evidence for this, but I can see in your lashes when you have been stressed...so breathe

It's overwhelming to see this all in one place...I know. If you are struggling with retention, take a look at this list and see what might be going on in your life/routine that could be compromising the bond between your natural lash and the eyelash extension.